Many people have a hard time discerning between sadness and depression. Though the difference between the two can be subtle, there are some key distinctions. Sadness occurs in response to a particular trigger, whether this be a loss, some sort of setback, or uneasiness about something that’s happening in your life. The trigger isn’t always obvious, but sadness is a reactionary response. It’s also short-lived and temporary, though the length the gloom lasts can vary quite a bit depending on the severity of the issue.

Depression, on the other hand, is longer-lasting, and often occurs in the absence of any obvious triggers. It’s more a general sense of disillusionment with one’s life as opposed to a reaction to a specific event (or series of events). Depression is also accompanied by a negative-leaning mindset that sets it apart from ordinary sadness. Depressed individuals start thinking differently and viewing the world differently. Depression is marked by a sense of detachment, withdrawal, or lack of interest in the world at large, whereas those experiencing sadness tend to be quite invested in the problem at hand and interested in making it better. Those who are depressed tend to feel lethargic, defeated, and hopeless – as if nothing you do matters.

Enduring hardships and suffering through difficult experiences is bound to make one temporarily sad, but even a whole heaping of sadness does not necessarily lead to a single ounce of depression. Its more about the mindset one adopts in their approach toward life. If you think you or someone you know is struggling from depression, see our book Overcoming Depression.

How long should sadness last?

There’s no official timeline for determining a reasonable period to overcome the pain of any particular situation. Some insults take longer to get over than others, and each person is different. The main question to ask is this: Does it seem to be getting a little better? Keeping in mind that recovery isn’t always linear, and you may have days where you seem to take a step back, is the general trajectory of your mood improving? If so, you’re probably fine. If not, there may be a problem.